The eagerly awaited FA Cup fifth-round draw has been finalized, setting the stage for a compelling showdown between Newcastle United and Manchester City. This fixture marks a swift reunion for the two clubs, who recently contested the Carabao Cup semi-finals. The upcoming matches promise intense football action as teams battle for a spot in the quarter-finals, with several high-profile clashes scheduled across England.
FA Cup Fifth Round: Key Matches and Dates Unveiled
In a significant announcement for football enthusiasts, the Football Association (FA) Cup fifth-round draw has paired Newcastle United with Manchester City. This highly anticipated match will take place at St. James' Park during the weekend of March 7-8, 2026. This encounter holds particular significance as it comes shortly after their Carabao Cup semi-final, where Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City successfully ousted Newcastle with a 5-1 aggregate score. Newcastle's journey to the fifth round included hard-fought victories, notably overcoming Bournemouth on penalties after a thrilling 3-3 draw in the third round and staging a impressive 3-1 comeback against Aston Villa.
Beyond this headline fixture, the draw has set up several other captivating matches. Chelsea is slated to face Wrexham, while Arsenal will travel to confront Mansfield Town. Another all-Premier League clash sees Wolverhampton Wanderers hosting Liverpool. Additional ties include Fulham battling Southampton, and Sunderland taking on the winner of the Port Vale or Bristol City match. West Ham United awaits the victor of the Macclesfield versus Brentford game. The full schedule for the FA Cup 2025-26 season includes the quarter-finals on April 4, semi-finals on April 25, and the grand final on May 16, all in 2026.
This latest FA Cup draw reminds us of the unpredictable and thrilling nature of knockout football. For Newcastle, this match offers a chance for redemption against a formidable opponent. For Manchester City, it's an opportunity to continue their pursuit of silverware. The competition's ability to pit giants against underdogs, and offer rematches that carry added weight, truly encapsulates the spirit of the beautiful game. Fans eagerly await these encounters, which are sure to deliver drama and excitement on the pitch.